10+ Best Laptops for Working From Home in 2024 (May)

Tired of your old, sluggish laptop ruining your work-from-home groove? Get ready to dive into a world of the best laptops designed to elevate your remote work experience. Explore my hand picked selection of the best laptops for working from home.

And when you have found the right laptop, upgrade your home-office setup with an excellent monitor, comfortable chair, speakers, keyboard, mouse, and more by exploring my top picks!

What is the Best Laptop for Home Use?

For the ultimate home office setup, I’ve found the Apple MacBook Pro with M2 Max chip to be the best laptop. Its powerful performance, stunning display, and seamless integration with other Apple devices make it a solid choice for various professionals.

My Top 3 Picks

03/04/2024 10:05 pm GMT

 

Detailed Reviews of 10 Best Laptops for Working From Home in 2024

1. Apple MacBook Pro with M2 Max chip — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)

The overall best laptop for working from home

CPU: M2 Max chip | GPU: Apple 30-core | Hard Disk Size: 1 TB | RAM Memory Size: 32 GB

There’s something about MacBooks that makes them perfect for all kinds of tasks. The Apple MacBook Pro with the M2 Max chip was no exception– integrating smoothly into my home office setup and optimizing my workflow like nothing else! The blend of cutting-edge features and how seamlessly it connects with other Apple devices has marked its place in my daily workflow.

For starters, the M2 Max chip boasts 12 CPU cores and up to 38 GPU cores, coupled with 32GB of unified memory. This configuration allows me to edit high-resolution videos or run resource-intensive simulations without delays.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is outstanding. With over 1000 nits of brightness and ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates, I’m treated to stunning HDR content with every glance.

Moreover, the advanced camera and audio setup elevate my virtual meetings to a professional standard. The 1080p FaceTime HD camera ensures I always look my best. At the same time, the studio-quality three-mic array and six-speaker sound system deliver crystal-clear audio, making communication seamless and effective.

The Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is responsive and adds an extra layer of security, allowing me to unlock my MacBook Pro and sign in to apps with just a touch. And with many ports including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and MagSafe, connecting peripherals is a breeze, ensuring I stay productive without any compatibility hassles.

But on the flip side, the large notch on the display, hogs the precious screen space and offers no additional functionality other than housing the FaceTime camera. Though it did bug me, I simply connected it to my MacBook monitor for a better viewing experience.

All in all, I’ve found the Apple MacBook Pro with M2 Max chip to be the best laptop for WFH professionals seeking unparalleled performance and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. Its supercharged hardware, stunning display, and advanced features make it a formidable choice for tackling any task.

The Apple MacBook Pro 14 is an excellent workstation. The M2 Pro and M2 Max SoC can handle nearly every type of workload, including demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. [Olivier Martin, Ryan Lim, and Yannick Khong, rtings]

PROS	CONS
➕ Supercharged M2 Max chip for unparalleled performance	➖ Noticeably heavy for prolonged portability
➕ Stunning 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display	➖ Large notch on the display lacks additional functionality
➕ Advanced camera and audio setup for professional communication
➕ Magic Keyboard with Touch ID for security and convenience
➕ Seamless integration with other Apple devices

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

2. DELL Inspiron 15 3525 — Best for Multitasking

Best laptop for work from home multitasking

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U | GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 32GB DDR4 SDRAM

Multitasking is a big part of my work-from-home life, and the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 is just the device for it. Whether I needed to put together complex reports or edit videos, it powered through it all without any hiccups. 

With an impressive 32GB of DDR4 SDRAM, the Inspiron 15 3525 ensured smooth operation even when tackling resource-intensive applications. Furthermore, the spacious 1TB SSD storage ensured ample room for storing essential files, documents, and multimedia projects.

It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, which delivers exceptional performance, whether handling complex computations, rendering graphics, or executing software tasks. The processor’s 6-core, 12-thread configuration, combined with AMD Radeon Graphics, ensured smooth and fluid operation, enhancing both productivity and user experience.

The 15.6-inch Full HD display with webcam and microphone enhanced remote collaboration and communication, providing crisp visuals and clear audio during my virtual meetings and conferences.

Moreover, the Inspiron 15 3525 offered various connectivity options, including USB Type-A ports, HDMI, SD Card Reader, and a headphone/microphone combo jack, facilitating seamless integration with peripherals and accessories.

While the Inspiron 15 3525 boasts impressive features and performance, it has some potential drawbacks. The lack of keyboard backlighting and the plain design may deter users seeking additional aesthetic appeal or enhanced visibility in low-light environments.

In summary, the DELL Inspiron 15 3525 is a reliable choice for professionals seeking a versatile laptop for their home office setup. Its robust multitasking capabilities, ample storage, and comprehensive connectivity options empower users to tackle their workload with confidence and efficiency. 

PROS	CONS
➕ 32GB DDR4 SDRAM for multitasking	➖ No keyboard backlighting
➕ 1TB SSD storage for ample file storage	➖ Plain design
➕ Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor
➕ Vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD display with webcam
➕ Versatile connectivity options

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

3. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 ㅡ Best Budget WFH Laptop

Best laptop for home office on budget

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U | GPU: Integrated Radeon Graphics | Hard Disk Size: 1TB PCIe SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

If you are on look out for the best work from home laptop on a budget, I can’t recommend the Lenovo 2023 IdeaPad Flex 5 enough. It combines essential features, reliable performance, and durability at a pocket-friendly price.

Its processor has eight cores and sixteen threads, operates at a base speed of 1.8GHz, and can turbo boost up to 4.3GHz, ensuring smooth multitasking and swift task execution. The IdeaPad Flex 5 handles everything efficiently, from editing documents to designing graphics.

My favorite thing about this laptop was its 16-inch WUXGA touchscreen display, boasting a resolution of 1920×1200 pixels. This display provided crisp and clear visuals, making every detail of my work pop out. Whether I was editing photos or watching videos, the display offered an immersive viewing experience.

The integrated AMD Radeon Graphics further enhanced the visual appeal of this laptop, delivering vibrant colors and smooth graphics performance. With ample 1TB PCIe SSD storage, I had plenty of space to store my projects and media files, with quick access and seamless file transfers.

While the 8GB LPDDR4x RAM may seem modest, it proved sufficient for everyday tasks. However, I advise a laptop with more RAM for demanding applications.

In conclusion, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 is a solid choice for those looking for a capable and versatile laptop for home use. Its powerful processor, stunning display, and ample storage make it well-suited for various tasks, from work to entertainment.

PROS	CONS
➕ Beginner-friendly	➖ 8GB RAM might be less for heavy multitasking
➕ Solid performance	➖ Graphic card not meant for extensive graphics handling
➕ Comfortable keyboard
➕ Webcam privacy shutter
➕ High-quality and durable body design

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

4. HP Envy x360 — Best Touchscreen Work From Home Laptop

Best touchscreen laptop for working from home

CPU:  Intel Core i7-1260P | GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 32GB DDR4 SDRAM

When I used the HP Envy x360, it became an essential part of my home setup, offering flexibility and performance that stood out. I was drawn to this laptop primarily for its top-notch touchscreen, which improved my interaction with software and media.

Featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen display, the HP Envy x360 offered an immersive viewing experience while maintaining crisp image quality. Underneath its sleek exterior, the HP Envy x360 boasts impressive specifications. The Intel Core i7 processor, coupled with 32GB of RAM, ensured smooth multitasking and swift performance even when dealing with resource-intensive applications.

The generous 1TB SSD provided ample storage space for all my files, allowing me to store large media libraries, project files, and documents without worrying about running out of space. Additionally, the SSD contributed to fast boot times and application launches, enhancing my overall productivity.

Thanks to its array of ports and wireless options, the HP Envy x360 never had an issue with connectivity. Whether I needed to connect peripherals, external displays or transfer data wirelessly, this laptop offered the flexibility and convenience I required to stay connected and productive.

However, it’s worth noting that the 16:9 display aspect ratio occasionally felt restrictive, especially when working on projects that demanded a wider viewing area. At those moments, I wished I had a laptop with a bigger screen. The display’s brightness was also lacking, particularly in well-lit environments with noticeable glare and reflections.

In sum, my experience with the HP Envy x360 was positive. Its touchscreen functionality, powerful performance, and ample storage make it a great laptop for home use.

PROS	CONS
➕ Responsive touchscreen for intuitive navigation	➖ 16:9 display aspect ratio may feel restrictive for some users
➕ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM for seamless multitasking	➖ Display brightness could be improved, especially in well-lit environments.
➕ Ample 1TB SSD storage for storing large files and media libraries
➕ Versatile connectivity options for peripheral devices and data transfer
➕ Sleek design and build quality for a premium user experience

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

5. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 — Ultraportable Laptop for Working From Home

Most portable laptop for online work

CPU: 12th Gen Intel Core i7 | GPU: ‎Intel Iris Xe | Hard Disk Size: 256 GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 16 GB

As someone who values efficiency and performance in every aspect of my work, I choose the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 for its unparalleled blend of power and portability.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 has a carbon-fiber reinforced chassis. This innovative design ensures exceptional durability and contributes to its lightweight nature. 

The 14-inch WUXGA display provided an immersive viewing experience for my spreadsheets, presentations, and documents with clarity. Coupled with the Intel Core i5 13th Gen processor, tasks ranging from data analysis to video conferencing were easily handled, ensuring swift performance and seamless multitasking.

With 16 GB of LPDDR5 memory, I never had to worry about experiencing slowdowns during intensive work sessions. Whether I was juggling multiple applications or editing large files, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11’s responsive computing power kept me focused and productive throughout the day.

Despite its impressive durability and portability, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 had some limitations. The soldered RAM prevented me from expanding memory post-purchase. The undersized touchpad posed a minor inconvenience as I’m accustomed to larger trackpads. Using a mouse easily mitigated this issue, allowing seamless navigation and control.

In summary, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 excels as a reliable and portable device for professionals seeking uncompromising performance on the go. Its durable yet lightweight design, powerful specifications, and innovative features make it a necessary tool for modern professionals.

The latest X1 Carbon gets 13th-gen Intel processors and greener construction but is otherwise unchanged and remains a top pick for business travelers. [Matt Elliott, cnet]

PROS	CONS
➕ Carbon-fiber reinforced chassis ensures exceptional durability.	➖ Non-expandable RAM due to soldered memory.
➕ Ultrathin and ultralight design for effortless portability.	➖ Undersized touchpad may be inconvenient for some users.
➕ Ample 16 GB LPDDR5 memory	➖ Limited Storage
➕ Immersive 14-inch WUXGA display for optimal viewing experience.

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

6. Apple MacBook Pro with M3 chip — Best for Video Editing

Best WFH MacBook for video editing

CPU:  8‑core CPU  | GPU: ‎10‑core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8 GB

When it comes to video editing, I opt for a laptop that can keep up. That’s why the Apple MacBook Pro with the M3 chip has been such a big deal for me. It’s got this amazing 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU that just eats up all the heavy video editing I do, like 4K rendering and running multiple apps at once, without any trouble.

Another aspect of the MacBook Pro’s 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display that amazed me was its Extreme Dynamic Range and over 1000 nits of brightness. Whether I was fine-tuning, color grading, or indulging in multimedia content during breaks, the display never failed to captivate me.

Battery life was a crucial factor in my decision-making process, and the MacBook Pro also delivered on that front. With up to 22 hours of battery life, I could work uninterrupted for extended periods without constant charging.

In terms of software compatibility, the MacBook Pro seamlessly integrated with all the professional applications I relied on, including Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365. The macOS interface further enhanced my workflow, making tasks intuitive and streamlined.

Of course, the price point of the MacBook Pro was something I had to consider. While it may be considered an investment, my experiences with the device reassured me of its value. All in all, the Apple MacBook Pro with M3 chip is a standout choice for video editors seeking top-tier performance in their home setup. 

PROS	CONS
➕ Impressive performance with the Apple M3 chip.	➖ Expensive investment.
➕ Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display for an unparalleled visual experience.	➖ Limited upgradability compared to some competitors
➕ Extended battery life of up to 22 hours.
➕ Seamless compatibility with professional software.
➕ Sleek and intuitive macOS interface.

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

7. Lenovo Ideapad 5i — Best Work From Home Laptop for Beginners

Best laptop for side hustle and beginner work

CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7 | GPU: Integrated | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB RAM

Next, I’ve got the Lenovo Ideapad 5i on my list, a laptop I chose for its standout performance and user-friendliness. What caught my eye at first was its sleek, modern look. The graphite gray color just screams professionalism.

Its 14-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 delivered vibrant colors and sharp details, whether I was watching movies, browsing the web, or working on documents.

Under the hood, the Ideapad 5i packs a punch with an Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, which provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. Paired with 8GB of DDR4 SDRAM, multitasking was a breeze, allowing me to seamlessly switch between various progr fams without experiencing any lag.

One standout feature of the Ideapad 5i was its generous storage capacity. It boasts a 1TB SSD that offers ample space for storing files, documents, photos, and videos. This not only ensured quick access to my data but also enhanced the overall system responsiveness, significantly reducing load times for applications and files.

In terms of connectivity, the Ideapad 5i offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Type-C port, HDMI, a headphone/microphone combo jack, and a media card reader. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable seamless wireless communication with other devices and networks.

One feature I particularly appreciated during my time with the Ideapad 5i was its webcam with a built-in microphone, which proved invaluable for video calls and virtual meetings. The addition of a fingerprint reader also provided added security and convenience, allowing for quick and secure access to the laptop.

While my experience with the Ideapad 5i was largely positive, there were a couple of drawbacks worth mentioning. The lack of CPU or screen upgrades may limit its appeal to power users seeking more customization options. Also, the display’s color coverage was lacking, making it less suitable for digital artists.

In summary, the Lenovo Ideapad 5i is a solid choice for professionals seeking a reliable, feature-rich laptop for general home use. Its impressive performance, sleek design, and generous storage capacity make it well-suited for various tasks, from productivity to entertainment. 

PROS	CONS
➕ Impressive Intel Core i7 processor	➖ Limited upgrade options for CPU and screen
➕ Spacious 1TB SSD for ample storage	➖ Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics may not satisfy demanding users
➕ Versatile connectivity options	➖ May not be suitable for gaming or graphic-intensive tasks
➕ Built-in webcam and fingerprint reader for added convenience
➕ Sleek and lightweight design for portability

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

8. Lenovo Yoga 7i — Best Large Display Laptop for WFH

Best home office laptop for immersive viewing

CPU: 12th Intel Evo Platform i5 | GPU: ‎Intel Iris Xe | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD| RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

I hate working on small screens– struggling and being myself frustrated trying to fit everything I need on the display. Trying to juggle multiple windows and programs at once was a real hassle. 

In that sense, the Lenovo Yoga 7i, with its big 14-inch touchscreen display had been a refreshing addition to my home office setup. I loved how I could spread out my work and enjoy movies and photos in vivid detail.

Running on a strong Intel Evo Platform i5 processor, this laptop handled everything I threw at it without any hiccups. With 8GB of RAM and a huge 1TB SSD, it was fast and had plenty of space for all my files and programs.

The 2-in-1 design was a standout feature for me. Flipping the screen around and using it as a tablet was great for reading documents or watching videos in bed. And when I needed to type, I could easily switch it back to laptop mode and use the comfortable keyboard.

Sure, the graphics weren’t the best for heavy-duty stuff, but they were more than enough for everyday use. The only downside was the limited number of USB ports, which sometimes made connecting devices a bit of a hassle. However, using a USB hub solved this problem for me.

Overall, the Lenovo 2023 Yoga 7i was an outstanding laptop for working comfortably on a laptop from home.

PROS	CONS
➕ Stunning 16-inch 2.5K IPS touch screen display with excellent color accuracy	➖ Integrated graphics may not meet the demands of graphics-intensive apps
➕ Intel Iris Xe graphics for impressive visuals and smooth performance	➖ Limited number of USB 3 ports
➕ Versatile and flexible 2-in-1 design for enhanced usability
➕ Backlit keyboard for comfortable typing in low-light environments

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

9. Acer Swift Go — Best Home Use Laptop for Digital Artists

Best WFH laptop for digital art and drawing

CPU: Intel Core i7-1355U | GPU: Intel Iris Xe  | Hard Disk Size: 512GB  | RAM Memory Size: 16GB LPDDR5

Digital artists, designers, and illustrators, this one’s for you! Having used the Acer Swift Go for quite some time in the past, I can attest to its incredible mix of performance, portability, and digital art-centric features.

What truly sets the Acer Swift Go apart is its stunning 14-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS display, offering vibrant color accuracy and crisp image quality. I was captivated by the remarkable depth of black and its immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for tasks that demand attention to detail, such as digital artistry.

Under the hood, the Swift Go boasts an impressive lineup of specifications tailored to meet the needs of digital professionals. Powered by the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, multitasking becomes effortless, allowing me to navigate complex design software without any slowdowns seamlessly. 

With 16GB of onboard LPDDR5 memory and a lightning-fast 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD, storage and performance limitations became a thing of the past.

In terms of connectivity, the Swift Go excels with its Killer Wireless Wi-Fi 6E AX1675, supporting dual-stream Wi-Fi across various bands for uninterrupted online collaboration and sharing of creative work. Additionally, the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.1 ensures seamless connectivity with peripherals and accessories.

Despite its powerhouse performance, the Swift Go remains remarkably portable, thanks to its slim 0.59-inch profile and lightweight aluminum body, making it ideal for digital artists who are constantly on the move.

In terms of video conferencing and content creation, the Swift Go shines with its 1440p QHD camera and Acer PurifiedView technology. It delivers crystal-clear imagery and advanced AI-driven features such as background blur and gaze correction, ensuring you always look your best during virtual meetings and live streams.

While the Swift Go excels in many areas, addressing some potential drawbacks is essential. While impressive, the 1920 x 1200 IPS display may fall short for users accustomed to higher resolutions. Additionally, while adequate for most tasks, the battery life may not meet the demands of extended work sessions without frequent charging.

Lastly, while serviceable, the speakers may lack the richness and depth desired by audiophiles. But using external speakers solved this issue.

In sum, the Acer Swift Go is the best value laptop for digital artists, offering perfect performance, portability, and innovative features. 

PROS	CONS
➕ Vivid 14″ 1920 x 1200 IPS display	➖ Display resolution may not satisfy all users
➕ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor	➖ Battery life might fall short for prolonged use
➕ 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD	➖ Speakers may lack depth
➕ Sleek, lightweight aluminum body
➕ 1440p QHD camera with PurifiedView tech

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

10. SAMSUNG Notebook 9 Pro — Best Value for Money Laptop

Best value laptop for work from home

CPU : Intel Core i7 8th Gen | GPU:  Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB

Find a solid laptop that doesn’t break the bank can be tricky. However, the Samsung 2023 Notebook 9 Pro 13 strikes a perfect balance between functionality and price– standing out as the best value WFH laptop in the current market. Its 13.3-inch FHD SVA BrightView WLED-backlit touchscreen display immediately caught my attention with its promise of stunning visuals and an immersive experience.

From the moment I powered it up, I was greeted by crisp, clear images and vibrant colors that brought my work to life in ways I had never experienced before. Whether I was editing photos, watching videos, or browsing the web, every detail was rendered with precision. The touchscreen functionality added a whole new level of versatility to my workflow, allowing me to interact with my projects in natural and intuitive ways.

But the display was just the beginning. Under the hood, the Notebook 9 Pro 13 packed a punch with its Intel Core i7-8565U processor. From coding to video editing, this laptop easily handled every task, delivering fast, reliable performance when I needed it most. And with 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM, multitasking was swift – I could switch between applications seamlessly without any slowdown.

Thanks to the generous 512GB SSD, storage was never an issue either. With quick access and little to no loading times, I had more than enough space for all my files, projects, and creative endeavors. And with a 4-cell Lithium-ion battery that could last up to 14 hours, I never had to worry about running out of power mid-project.

Of course, no laptop is without its drawbacks, and the Notebook 9 Pro 13 was no exception. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 sometimes struggled with more graphics-intensive tasks, but that wasn’t a major inconvenience for me. However, if you’re looking for a laptop that can handle high-end graphic tasks, consider the best laptops for game development, as they have the best graphic cards.

Overall, the Samsung 2023 Notebook 9 Pro 13 exceeded all my expectations. Its stunning display, powerful performance, and long-lasting battery life quickly became my go-to laptop for work and creativity.

PROS	CONS
➕ Lightweight	➖ Poor graphics performance
➕ Built-in S Pen Slot.
➕ Long Battery Life
➕ Stunning display

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

How I Selected and Tested the Best Laptops for Working From Home

Selection Process

My approach to finding the best laptops for working from home was thorough and meticulous. First, I delved into understanding the demographics of professionals working remotely. From freelancers to video editors and bloggers, I analyzed the varying needs and preferences of these users.

I considered the specific tasks and software they would use, their laptop requirements, and the pain points you would want to avoid. This understanding enabled me to seek out laptops that hit the sweet spot in terms of performance, display quality, storage capacity, and more.

During my research, I explored numerous laptop models from various reputable brands. I looked beyond specifications, considering factors like build quality, design aesthetics, unique features, operating system compatibility, and customer support.

Testing Process

Once I had selected a range of laptops that met my criteria, I proceeded to the testing phase. This stage evaluated whether the selected laptops lived up to their promises. Here’s how I tested the best laptops for remote workers:

1. Processing and Capacity: I tested the laptops’ performance by running resource-intensive software like Adobe Creative Suite and popular games to evaluate how they handled heavy processing tasks. I observed how quickly they could render videos and the speed of multitasking to judge their processing power and RAM capacity.
2. Storage: For storage tests, I loaded the laptops with large files and projects to assess how quickly they could access, save, and transfer data. I also examined the amount of storage they offered right out of the box.
3. Display: Display tests involved scrutinizing the color accuracy, resolution, and overall quality of the screens. This was particularly crucial for graphic design, video editing, and art professionals, who require a high-quality, color-accurate display.
4. Battery Performance: Battery life was another critical aspect I tested. I used the laptops for an entire workday to determine if they could last without needing a recharge. Additionally, I assessed how much noise the laptop generated under load, how much heat it produced, and the efficiency of its cooling system.
5. Build quality: To evaluate build quality, I examined each laptop’s durability and assessed its design and aesthetic appeal. I also evaluated the robustness of the keyboards, trackpads, and speakers.
6. Connectivity: I noted each laptop’s connectivity options and tested them for data transfer speeds and performance with external devices. Additionally, I evaluated the laptop’s security features, like fingerprint readers and encryption capabilities.

This selection and testing process culminated in my final list of the best laptops for working from home. My recommended laptops meet the diverse needs of home-based professionals, offering a harmonious blend of performance, aesthetics, and value for money.

How to Choose the Best Laptop for Remote Working: A Buying Guide

Wondering what to consider when choosing the best laptop for working from home? Well, in the case of laptops, no one size fits all. So, here’s my buying guide for Work From Home laptops:

🚀 Purpose and Performance

What you’re trying to achieve with a laptop and how you expect it to perform are primary factors in determining your choice of laptop. For one, if your work mostly entails web browsing, document editing, and multimedia consumption, a laptop with a mid-range processor, such as an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, will suffice.

However, if you plan to engage in more demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, or graphic design, consider a laptop with a more powerful processor, like the HP Envy x360.

🖥️ Display Quality & Screen Resolution

The display size and resolution are crucial to your WFH laptop experience. If portability is important for you, a 13- or 14-inch laptop like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 is ideal due to its compact yet stunning display.

On the other hand, if you prioritize immersive viewing and multitasking, a larger display, such as 15.6 inches or 17.3 inches, the Lenovo Yoga 7i will provide a more spacious workspace. Opt for a Full HD (1920 x 1080) or higher resolution display for sharp visuals and vibrant colors.

💽 Storage Capacity

Consider the amount of storage you require for your home laptop. If you deal with heavy apps and files, opt for a laptop with ample Solid-state (SSD) storage capacity.

Look for laptops with at least 256GB or 512GB of SSD storage, or consider models with additional storage options like a secondary hard drive or expandable storage. The Apple MacBook Pro and DELL Inspiron 15 3525 are reliable options.

💾 Memory (RAM)

The amount of RAM affects the laptop’s multitasking capabilities and overall performance. For general home use, 8GB of RAM is usually sufficient to handle multiple applications and browser tabs. However, if you frequently work with memory-intensive tasks or run virtual machines, consider upgrading to 16GB or higher for smoother performance.

So, a laptop like HP Envy x360 would be the right choice for extensive workloads and multitasking.

🔌Ports and Connectivity

If connectivity is important to your work, you should look for laptops equipped with multiple USB ports (USB-C, USB-A) to connect peripherals, external storage, and displays. Additionally, check for an HDMI port to connect your laptop to a larger monitor or TV. Also, check its compatibility with wireless connections.

Laptops like the DELL Inspiron 15 3525 and Lenovo Ideapad 5i are suitable for versatile and reliable connectivity options.

🔋Battery Life

Battery life is an important concern when buying a laptop. For one, if the power supply is unstable in your area, or you don’t have access to power outlets close to your workstation, you should consider buying a laptop with longer battery life– like the Apple MacBook Pro.

Regardless, you should aim for a laptop that offers at least 6-8 hours of battery life for prolonged use without recharge. However, battery life can vary depending on usage, and power-hungry tasks like gaming or video editing may reduce battery longevity. It’s a good idea to have some power backup.

💻 Operating System

Choose an operating system that aligns with your preferences and software compatibility. Windows laptops provide a wide range of software options and are suitable for most users. In that case, you can go for DELL Inspiron 15 3525.

However, if you prefer highly powerful processors and have specific software requirements exclusive to macOS, consider the Apple MacBook Pro.

📷 Webcam Quality

A quality webcam is crucial for virtual meetings and presentations in today’s remote work environment. While most built-in laptop webcams offer 720p resolution, suitable for casual use, consider a 1080p webcam for clearer image quality. Check low light performance and microphone quality for optimal audio-visual communication. Features like a privacy shutter or noise-reduction technology can add value.

For instance, the DELL Inspiron 15 3525 delivers good 720p webcam quality, and the Lenovo 2023 IdeaPad Flex 5 includes a privacy shutter. So, consider webcam quality alongside performance, display, storage, RAM, connectivity, battery life, and OS for the best remote work laptop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the Perfect Laptop for Work from Home

After trying and testing different WFH-appropriate laptops, the Apple MacBook Pro has been the absolute winner for me. From strong processing power to generous RAM and SSD, excellent display, impressive battery life, connectivity, and compatibility– this Apple laptop has everything to take care of your WFH needs.

And while it does have a rather high price point, rest assured that it’s worth every penny. But if macOS is not your cup of tea, I’d recommend going for HP Envy x360.

Related Posts

1. 10+ Best Laptops for Digital Art & Artists
2. 10 Best Windows Laptops for Creative Professionals
3. Best Laptops Under 1000 that Give a Hard Time to Some High-End Laptops
4. 25+ Essential Remote Work Tools for Productive Work